Understanding Genograms: What They Are and How We Use Them in Therapy

At the Therapy Center for Transformative Growth, we offer a variety of tools to help you better understand yourself, your relationships, and the challenges you face. One of the most powerful tools we use is the genogram. In this post, we'll explain what a genogram is, why we use them in therapy, and what you can expect if you choose to have one done.

What is a Genogram?

A genogram is a visual representation of your family structure, similar to a family tree, but with much more depth. While a family tree shows only who is related to whom, a genogram goes further by mapping out relationships, emotional dynamics, life events, and important patterns across generations.

For example, a genogram can highlight patterns of mental health issues, addiction, illness, or trauma in a family. It can also show patterns in relationships, like how close or distant certain family members are, or where there have been conflicts, cutoffs, or separations.

At our center, we make sure that genograms are inclusive of all family types. This means that chosen family, foster family, and adoptive family members are included just as much as biological relatives. We also ensure that the genogram reflects important aspects of identity, such as gender and sexual orientation.

How Can a Genogram Help in Therapy?

A genogram can be a powerful tool for understanding how your family’s history influences your life today. By seeing patterns in your family’s behavior and relationships, you might gain insights into why certain situations or relationships feel familiar or challenging.

For example, if we trace patterns of anxiety, conflict, or cutoffs in your family, we might begin to understand how these experiences have shaped your responses to stress or relationships. Recognizing these patterns can be a first step toward breaking cycles that no longer serve you and building healthier relationships moving forward.

Genograms can also be helpful for exploring your identity. If you’re part of a foster or adoptive family, or if you identify as LGBTQIA+, the genogram can help highlight how your unique experiences have fit into the larger family system.

What is the Process of Having a Genogram Done?

If you decide to create a genogram with us, the process will take place over three sessions. This allows time to make sure we get a complete picture of your family and that the genogram reflects your experiences accurately.

Session 1: Getting Started

In the first session, we’ll explain what a genogram is and how it might be useful for you. We’ll discuss your goals for creating one, whether that’s understanding family patterns, exploring relationships, or something else. Together, we’ll begin mapping out the basic structure of your family—who the key members are, how they’re related, and any important life events that come to mind.

Session 2: Reviewing the Draft

By the second session, we’ll have a draft of your genogram ready to review. This session is your opportunity to make sure everything feels accurate and to add more detailed information about the dynamics in your family. We might discuss emotional relationships, significant events that have shaped your family, and any patterns that are starting to emerge. We’ll also make any changes or corrections based on your feedback.

Session 3: Reflecting on the Final Genogram

In the third session, we’ll go over the finalized genogram. This is the time to reflect on what we’ve uncovered. We’ll discuss any insights or patterns that stand out and how they might help you understand your current challenges, relationships, or identity. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of your family’s influence on your life and, hopefully, a better understanding of how to move forward.

How Can You Use Your Genogram?

While the genogram is a useful tool in therapy, you can also use it on your own. Once completed, the genogram can serve as a map to help you reflect on family dynamics and how they affect your decisions, relationships, and emotional health. You might notice patterns that weren’t obvious before, helping you understand why certain challenges seem to repeat.

By seeing these patterns, you can begin to make choices that break cycles or reinforce healthy dynamics. The genogram can also serve as a reference point for discussions with family members, helping you clarify relationships and open up new conversations.

Conclusion: A Personalized Tool for Growth

Creating a genogram is a collaborative process. It’s not just about gathering information; it’s about understanding your life through the lens of your family’s history and dynamics. By working together, we can uncover patterns, break cycles, and help you move toward a future where your choices feel more aligned with your needs and goals.

If you’re interested in creating a genogram or learning more about how it could help you, feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to explore this valuable tool with you and guide you through the process at a pace that feels comfortable. Genogram sessions are available to our current clients and to folks not currently working with us who are interested in meeting for just three sessions to complete a genogram.

A canopy of trees and sun.